The course provides an overview on the types of in-situ geotechnical tests (SPT, CPT, CPTu, DMT, PMT, VST) and geophysical methods (Refraction, CHT, DHT, SASW, CSW, MASW, PSW, and ReMi), and places special emphasis on the utilization of the expedient SCPTù (and related SDMTà) for efficient collection of site-specific data for geotechnical investigations. Up to five independent readings on soil response are collected in a single sounding, in particular, the cone tip stress (qt), sleeve friction (fs), porewater pressure (u2), time rate dissipations (t50), and downhole shear wave velocity (Vs). Interpretative methods are reviewed for obtaining a suite of soil parameters & properties often required in geotechnical analyses, especially numerical modelling simulations. The importance and usefulness of the small-strain shear modulus (Gmax), obtained from shear wave velocities, is documented as an initial state parameter, representing the beginning of all stress-strain-strength curves (drained, undrained, static, dynamic). Numerous case studies are interwoven to show the general applicability of the approaches in soil behavior, as well as applications to full-scale foundation response. The use of Gmax in shallow and deep foundation performance is demonstrated, specifically in the derivation of nonlinear load-displacement-capacity evaluations, as well as approximate nonlinear stress-strain-strength curves for input into numerical simulations (FEM). Methods of indirect and direct capacity assessment by CPT are contained in the documents.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

Geotechnical engineers, offshore designers, site planners, foundation designers, tract developers, structural, civil, and construction engineers involved with building sites, foundation systems, land construction, numerical analyses, and real estate development should attend this course. The use of modern methods for assessing soil parameters for shallow & deep foundation systems from in-situ test data. Students will receive a full set of hard copy notes, plus a free DVD with the notes and affiliated documents, including the NHI Manual on Subsurface Investigations (2002), FHWA Evaluation of Soil & Rock Properties (2002), and NCHRP (2007) Synthesis 368 on Cone Penetration Testing, as well as separate NSF, ADSC, and ARO reports on related topics.